The Golf SportWagen is replacing the 2014 Jetta SportWagen. The vehicle is based on the same MQB platform VW used for its 2015 Golf redesign, while the Jetta continues using the older PQ35 platform.

The 2015 SportWagen TDI provides plenty of performance upgrades from the outgoing Jetta-based TDI model, including more horsepower (150 to 140) and a nearly 8 percent improvement in highway mpg. The new dimensions remain similar, as the vehicle is now only 0.2 inches longer, 0.7 inches wider, and 1.6 inches shorter.

The new platform provides a fluid ride. The Sportwagen is light on its feet with a tight suspension that gives it sure-footedness. We drove it without cargo.

Photo by Vince Taroc.

Last year, we were impressed with Passat TDI, which provides nearly 700 miles of range on one tank. But if you're looking to haul light cargo, the Golf SportWagen TDI may be a better choice. You get 30.4 cubic-feet behind the rear seat, and if you fold down the seats, the hauling capability more than doubles. VW added 1.7 cubic-feet of cargo volume.

The SportWagen provides impressive fuel economy and a range of about 450 miles per 13.2-gallon tank, depending on how you drive it. As a means of comparison, I usually drive a gasoline entry-luxury sedan with a 14-gallon tank. When driving that car to maximize fuel economy, I can log nearly 23 mpg in city and highway driving with a range of about 320 miles.

The SportWagen gets an EPA-rated 42 mpg highway (a number that's easily achievable) and 31 mpg in the city.

Our SportWagen SEL's near-luxury cockpit provided a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated front seats, and Fender premium audio system. The steering wheel controls for cruiser control and audio volume were easily identifiable so you could glance down to set cruise control and return your eyes to the road.

While our test model would sell for $34,620, the SEL trim level starts at $31,445.

Driving Notes

Fleets searching for a compact SUV for upper-echelon sales reps may want to consider the 2018 GMC Terrain — a capable utility that arrives in a more upscale package that its companion Chevrolet Equinox.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a significantly upgraded van that offers a dizzying array of configurations and meaningful improvements designed to improve productivity for delivering packages or hauling passengers.

The EcoSport is Ford’s first-ever subcompact SUV sold in North America, one of the region’s fastest growing vehicle segments. The EcoSport is sold globally by Ford and the updated U.S. model is imported from Ford India.

The all-new 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman model is designed for vocational fleet applications, such as those found in the construction, landscaping, HVAC, and plumbing industries. It is available in two cab styles and two bed lengths.

The Chevrolet Equinox adds a 1.6L four-cylinder turbo diesel to its lineup of engine choices for 2018. The fuel-efficient turbo diesel generates 137 hp and 240 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a six-speed automatic.

Last overhauled for the 2014 model year, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets a refresh for 2018 that includes new engines and an infusion of new tech into one of the most already advanced vehicles on the market.

The Range Rover Velar provides exceptional on-road performance and agility that is combined with outstanding ride quality. The Range Rover Velar sits on a 113.15-inch wheelbase and provides seating for five with a luggage compartment volume of 34.4 cu.-ft. behind the second row seats.